SCHOOL CHILDREN'S HEALTH

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXIV, Issue 16358, 30 September 1913, Page 3

SCHOOL CHILDREN'S HEALTH

INSPECTOR-GENERAL'S COMMENTS.

A SURriUSE TO THE PUBLIC. [Fnon Otm Connr.sroxnENT.] WELLINGTON, September 27. In the courso of his report on tho public health of the dominion, Dr Valintine, Chief Health O'fficor, makes oome interesting remarks regarding the' medical inspection of school children and the observation so far made. He discusses the position as follows: — " With the staff available it was considered inadvisable to undertake a routino examination of all the standards, the first object being to inspect as many schools as possible with a view to discovering defects or ailments, so that they could obtain the necessary medical advice. Tho number of children found ±o bo sufforine from some ailment or defect will, I think, come ns a surprise to the public. It is only right, to point out that there is considerable disparity in tho various inspectors' reports, hence it has been considered inadvisable to make a comparative, statement as to the health of the children in tho various provinces. It is only fair to state that this disparity has not been so noticeable since January last, when tho inspectors undertook a joint inspection of certain schoob in Wellington. By this means it has been made possible for them to adept a. more uniform standard. The percentage of children, however, actually recommended for treatment in the" various provinces is a

nearer approximation." Tho fact could not bo ignored, the doctor continued, that a greater number of children required treatment for some illness or defect than was anticipated. Arrangements woro being mada with local medical practitioners to undertake the work as part-time officers of the Department.